The language of a people is the most important component of its culture. We view culture in the broad, sociological sense of the word (not simply in the narrow sense of literature and the fine arts) and attempt, at all levels, to develop in our students an understanding of as many aspects of the foreign culture and civilization as possible in conjunction with training in listening comprehension, speaking, reading, and writing. This emphasis on proficiency in the skills is carried into the literature courses, all of which are conducted in the target language to insure that graduates will be well prepared whatever their career decision may be.

Students who have studied a language prior to enrolling at Gustavus must take the online placement exam to determine the appropriate level for registration.

Any courses presented for transfer credit into the major/minor must be approved by the section and the department chairperson, who must also approve the study abroad curriculum prior to departure. The department will consider a maximum of three courses for acceptance as part of a student’s major/minor, not to exceed to courses per semester of work done in another institution. At least one course in the major/minor must be completed after returning from study abroad.

244, 344 Special Topics in Modern Languages, Literatures and Cultures (1 course, 1 course) Course content varies and explores a topic or problem in depth through reading, discussion and writing. Course taught in English. More than one special topic may be taken. Offered occasionally.

265 Exploring Intercultural Relations Through Film (1 course) This course explores intercultural relations using films from various countries in their original languages (with subtitles). Social scientific methods will be combined with film analysis exercises to examine issues of prejudice, cultural variations in communicative style, cultural values, cultural/social identities, and the cultural adjustment process. Films will be used to illustrate social scientific theories and concepts of intercultural relations as well as to facilitate reflection on social and ethical issues. A film analysis paper assignment will provide students with an opportunity to further explore a specific culture of their interest. This course counts toward the Peace Studies minor. SOSCI, Spring semester.

357 Language Teaching Methods (1 course) This course provides students with current information on L2 teaching methods for children and youth Kindergarten–12th grade. It is designed to prepare students to embark on the pedagogical aspect of their professional careers as language instructors. Students will focus on selecting materials and methods for teaching
in the five major areas of language (speaking, writing, reading, listening comprehension, and culture). Aside from readings, students will have the opportunity to observe L2 classes using observation tasks. Students are required to turn In a portfolio at the end of the semester, which includes materials for L2 instruction. In addition, student will teach sample lesson plans in a second language of their choice. Fall semester.